Update on the Use of Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors in Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus

    February 2011 in “ Biologics: Targets & Therapy ”
    Michael Sticherling
    Image of study
    TLDR Topical calcineurin inhibitors, especially 0.1% tacrolimus ointment, are effective and well-tolerated for treating cutaneous lupus erythematosus but require more research for standard treatment guidelines.
    The document from 2011 reviews the use of topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs), tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, in treating cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE). It compiles data from various small studies and case reports involving a total of 144 patients, showing that TCIs can be effective in treating CLE, particularly with 0.1% tacrolimus ointment. The effectiveness varies across CLE subsets, with systemic lupus erythematosus lesions responding well, while discoid lupus erythematosus lesions are less responsive. TCIs are well-tolerated with minimal side effects and do not cause skin atrophy, making them a promising alternative to corticosteroids. However, the document emphasizes the need for more extensive, controlled studies to establish evidence-based protocols for their use in CLE, as current clinical effects are limited to the duration of treatment. Concerns about the potential risk of skin malignancies with long-term use of TCIs are noted, but the document suggests that the risk may be overrated for CLE patients who follow strict UV protection guidelines.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    3 / 3 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 1000+ results
      If You Have DUPA, PLEASE READ THIS: Everyone Should Be Scalp Biopsied

      community If You Have DUPA, PLEASE READ THIS: Everyone Should Be Scalp Biopsied

      in Research  830 upvotes 8 months ago
      Scalp biopsies are crucial for diagnosing hair loss conditions like Diffuse Unpatterned Alopecia (DUPA) and retrograde hair loss, as treatments like finasteride and dutasteride may not be effective if other conditions are present. Combining PPAR-GAMMA agonists with retinoids could improve treatments for conditions like Lichen Planopilaris.

      community Efficacy and Systemic DHT Suppression of Topical Finasteride vs Dutasteride

      in General  122 upvotes 2 weeks ago
      Topical dutasteride may have limited absorption due to its higher molecular mass compared to finasteride, potentially affecting its efficacy in suppressing DHT locally. Microneedling might enhance dutasteride absorption, possibly offering stronger local DHT suppression with fewer systemic effects.

      community How effective is topical spironolactone for androgenic alopecia?

      in Female  1 upvotes 3 weeks ago
      Topical spironolactone is discussed as a potential treatment for androgenic alopecia, with the user seeking feedback on its effectiveness. Minoxidil, finasteride, and other treatments like microneedling and keto shampoo are mentioned as alternatives.

      community Topical fin 0.025%, min 5% - 2,5 months progress

      in Finasteride/Dutasteride  9 upvotes 1 month ago
      The user started using topical finasteride 0.025% and minoxidil 5% twice daily, seeing initial improvement but later experiencing shedding and scalp pain. They are considering increasing the finasteride dose to 0.05% while using keto shampoo and dermarolling, and are debating the effectiveness of low versus standard doses of finasteride.

    Similar Research

    5 / 1000+ results